


Ecclesiastes 10:9
Bible Versions
Whoso removeth stones shall be hurt therewith; [and] he that cleaveth wood shall be endangered thereby.
He who quarries stones may get hurt by them, he who chops wood puts himself in danger.
The one who quarries stones may be injured by them, and he who splits logs endangers himself.
Whoso heweth out stones shall be hurt therewith; and he that cleaveth wood is endangered thereby.
No cross-references found for this verse.
Ecclesiastes 10:9 (KJV): "Whoso removeth stones shall be hurt therewith; [and] he that cleaveth wood shall be endangered thereby."
Context
Ecclesiastes 10 is part of the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, traditionally attributed to King Solomon, referred to as "the Preacher" (Qoheleth). This chapter often contrasts wisdom with folly, particularly in the realm of daily life, governance, and the consequences of one's actions. Verse 9 specifically uses practical, tangible examples from ancient labor to illustrate a deeper principle about the inherent risks and potential pitfalls of undertaking significant tasks.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew words used here are straightforward, emphasizing the literal physical dangers. "Removeth stones" (sāqal) can refer to clearing stones from a field or quarrying them, both arduous and risky. "Cleaveth wood" (bāqa‘) implies splitting, often with an axe, a task prone to slippage or splintering. The terms "hurt" (ye’aṣēb) and "endangered" (yiššāqēp, meaning to be exposed to danger or to look out over a precipice) vividly convey the physical peril involved. There's no hidden linguistic nuance here; the power is in the direct, observable truth.
Practical Application
Ecclesiastes 10:9 offers timeless wisdom beyond its literal context of ancient manual labor. It reminds us that: